6 Cheapest Private Colleges Illinois

6 Cheapest Private Colleges Illinois
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • A majority of private colleges in Illinois offer state grants and scholarships to assist students financially.
  • To ensure that you get a quality education at an affordable price, pay attention to financial aid, accreditation, and graduation rates at the college you are interested in attending.
  • It is important that the private college you choose still aligns with your objectives, schedule preferences, and learning goals.

Cheapest Private Colleges in Illinois

Sort by:
  1. Elmhurst University
  2. Aurora University
  3. St. Augustine College
  4. Northwestern University
  5. National Louis University
  6. DePaul University
  1. Northwestern University
  2. DePaul University
  3. Elmhurst University
  4. National Louis University
  5. Aurora University
  6. St. Augustine College
  1. National Louis University 92%
  2. Aurora University 82%
  3. Elmhurst University 76%
  4. DePaul University 70%
  5. Northwestern University 7%
  1. Aurora University 18 to 1
  2. DePaul University 17 to 1
  3. National Louis University 15 to 1
  4. Elmhurst University 13 to 1
  5. St. Augustine College 9 to 1
  6. Northwestern University 6 to 1
  1. Northwestern University $63,468
  2. DePaul University $42,840
  3. Elmhurst University $40,232
  4. Aurora University $27,420
  5. St. Augustine College $13,288
  6. National Louis University $11,580
  1. Northwestern University $51,869
  2. Elmhurst University $33,000
  3. DePaul University $21,719
  4. Aurora University $14,586
  5. National Louis University $11,646
  1. DePaul University
  2. National Louis University
  3. Northwestern University
  4. St. Augustine College
  5. Aurora University
  6. Elmhurst University
  1. St. Augustine College
  2. Aurora University
  3. National Louis University
  4. Elmhurst University
  5. DePaul University
  6. Northwestern University
  1. Northwestern University 7%
  2. DePaul University 70%
  3. Elmhurst University 76%
  4. Aurora University 82%
  5. National Louis University 92%
  1. Northwestern University 6 to 1
  2. St. Augustine College 9 to 1
  3. Elmhurst University 13 to 1
  4. National Louis University 15 to 1
  5. DePaul University 17 to 1
  6. Aurora University 18 to 1
  1. National Louis University $11,580
  2. St. Augustine College $13,288
  3. Aurora University $27,420
  4. Elmhurst University $40,232
  5. DePaul University $42,840
  6. Northwestern University $63,468
  1. National Louis University $11,646
  2. Aurora University $14,586
  3. DePaul University $21,719
  4. Elmhurst University $33,000
  5. Northwestern University $51,869

Most students struggle to secure a spot in a public institution. Sometimes, public colleges don’t offer subjects that interest students. That’s where private colleges can make your life easier. However, accreditation issues, quality of education, and high tuition costs might be holding you back.

Don’t worry! In this article, we have made a list of the cheapest private colleges that Illinois has to offer so you can decide which one is worth a shot.

6 Cheapest Private Colleges in Illinois

The cost of a college degree can deter many students from applying. Luckily, many affordable options in Illinois provide students with quality education at lower tuition rates. In addition, state grants and scholarships help you afford the state’s top private colleges. However, finding them can be challenging.

To save you the hassle, we have listed them.

Three students reading and writing notes in an outdoor table
  1. #1

    Elmhurst University

    Elmhurst , IL
    #9 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Elmhurst University

    Cost of Degree: $40,232
    Expenses: $15,760
    Starting Salary: $51,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Elmhurst University

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 52%
    • Acceptance Rate: 76%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • Focus Areas: Psychology, Nursing, Business, and Biological Sciences

    What Do We Love About Elmhurst University? 

    Founded in 1871, Elmhurst University ranks 7th in Best Value Schools by US News. It offers 70+ majors. You can also earn special certifications in cybersecurity to stay current with the changing business trends.

    EU offers a more personalized educational experience, with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio facilitating a more direct interaction with the teachers. About 63% of classes at EU have less than 20 students. It also provides opportunities for students to study in 44 other countries under the Study Abroad programs.

    • Elmhurst University is great for students who: EU has 44% minority enrolment, making it an ideal destination for students who love diversity and interacting with people from varying backgrounds.
    • Elmhurst University might not be the best fit for those who: First-year students are required to live in shared residence halls for at least one year.

    Elmhurst University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Finance
    • International Business
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Logistics And Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in It
    Degree Concentrations
    • Computer Information Systems
    • Cybersecurity
    • Programming
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
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  2. #2

    Aurora University

    Aurora , IL
    #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #12 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1089/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Aurora University

    Cost of Degree: $27,420
    Expenses: $16,602
    Starting Salary: $46,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Aurora University

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 46%
    • Acceptance Rate: 86%
    • Accreditation: HLC
    • Focus Areas: Athletic Training, Business Finance, Computer Technology, Criminal Justice, communication, and Marketing.

    What Do We Love About Aurora University? 

    Aurora University is known for its vibrant campus that opens doors to countless learning and networking opportunities for individuals. At AU, the 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio facilitates students in building meaningful connections with experts in the field.

    • Aurora University is great for students who: AU offers over 60 undergrad programs, making it a desirable option for students looking to pursue their specific interests without leaving the state.
    • Aurora University might not be the best fit for those who: AU isn’t among the top 300 national ranking universities. So, if you’re looking for reputed universities, then you can consider other options on the list.  

    Aurora University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    3. Building of a private college
  3. #3

    St. Augustine College

    Chicago , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at St. Augustine College

    Cost of Degree: $13,288
    Starting Salary: $29,500

    Overview of Saint Augustine College

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 8%
    • Acceptance Rate: 75%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • Focus Areas: Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice

    What Do We Love About Saint Augustine College? 

    Saint Augustine College lies at 1st spot in Regional Colleges Midwest ranking for Social Mobility by the US News. This is the only college on the list that allows bilingual studies. They work on the motto of starting your studies in Spanish and ending them in English.

    • Saint Augustine College is great for students who: Saint Augustine College strongly emphasizes community building by bringing different ethnicities and genders together.
    • Saint Augustine College might not be the best fit for those who: Its graduation rate is a mere 8%, making it extremely competitive for students to finish their degrees.
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Northwestern University

    Evanston , IL
    #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #16 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwestern University

    Cost of Degree: $63,468
    Expenses: $25,926
    Starting Salary: $93,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Northwestern University 

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 87%
    • Acceptance Rate: 7%
    • Accreditation: HLC
    • Focus Areas: Analytics, Stochastic Analysis & Simulation, Financial Engineering, Logistics & Operations, and Healthcare Engineering.

    What Do We Love About Northwestern University?

    Northwestern University is one of Illinois’ leading private research universities, offering a diverse yet inclusive environment for everybody. Founded in 1851, it’s known to offer a wide array of academic programs, including bachelor’s, online master degrees, and doctoral degrees.

    • Northwestern University is great for students who: Wish to enjoy diverse academic programs. At NU, you can explore dual-degree programs or pursue a degree in over 70 subjects.
    • Northwestern University might not be the best fit for those who: A 7% acceptance rate indicates that securing a spot at Northwestern University might be super competitive for many.
    Compare school
  6. #5

    National Louis University

    Chicago , IL
    #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #6 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs #13 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology #16 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for degree at National Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $14,244
    Starting Salary: $50,800

    Overview of National Louis University  

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 23%
    • Acceptance Rate: 92%
    • Accreditation: HLC
    • Focus Areas: Education, Business & Psychology, Culinary Arts, Computer Science, and Hospitality Management.

    What Do We Love About National Louis University?

    National Louis University stands out as another solid choice for those seeking affordable undergraduate degrees. With an annual tuition cost of $12,333, it offers affordability and accessibility to students from every background. If you’re a military member, you can opt for their Community Heroes program for further reduction.

    • National Louis University is great for students who: NLU tends to favor those who have served the community and the country.
    • National Louis University might not be the best fit for those who: Lower graduation rates indicate that students with average academics might struggle to get a degree.  

    National Louis University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Sciences
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BABS in Communications
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Leadership
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    7. Student walking on a concrete path of a school campus
  7. #6

    DePaul University

    Chicago , IL
    #3 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #19 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/27

    Career Outlook for degree at DePaul University

    Cost of Degree: $43,100
    Expenses: $19,713
    Starting Salary: $60,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of DePaul University 

    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Graduation Rate: 58%
    • Acceptance Rate: 70%
    • Accreditation: HLC
    • Focus Areas: Sales & Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Career Assessment & Planning, and Training & Development.

    What Do We Love About DePaul University? 

    Founded in 1898, DePaul University offers 170 graduate programs and 130 undergraduate majors. With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, DPU is strongly committed to personalized education. So, you’re not just a face in the crowd here.

    On top of that, DePaul University crowns itself by providing scholarships to 98% of new students.

    • DePaul University is great for students who: Prefer to enjoy campus life. Its Chicago and Lincoln Park, Illinois campuses are great places to experience the vibrant urban vibe.
    • DePaul University might not be the best fit for those who: $43,665 annual tuition fee is pretty high, which may be financially challenging for many students who are short on budget.  

    DePaul University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Decision Analytics
    • Required Credits: 192
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Professional Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Computing
    • Required Credits: 192
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Applied Behavioral Sciences
    • Required Credits: 192
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Leadership Studies
    • Required Credits: 192
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Related Questions

Do cheap colleges in Illinois offer high-quality education?

Yes. The value of a college degree doesn’t solely depend on the price tag, mainly because numerous factors contribute to the tuition fee. Most cheap colleges in Illinois are highly accredited, which means they offer top-notch education, irrespective of their fee.

How much will a college degree cost in Illinois?

Before stepping into college, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the average cost of attending a college in Illinois. Typically, public universities charge around $14,579 per year for in-state students, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $28,660 annually.

Are there any hidden costs to attending a cheap private college in Illinois?

Yes, other costs may be associated with attending a private college in Illinois, such as books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Therefore, it’s best to research before deciding which college to attend.

Conclusion

While Illinois public universities often grab attention for their lower costs, the private colleges in Illinois are equally budget-friendly. However, don’t forget to consider other critical factors such as financial aid, accreditation, and graduation rates to make sure you make the right decision!

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